The cultural and medieval research center, Snorrastofa, situated at Reykholt, was founded in the memory of scholar Snorri Sturluson.
Snorri Sturluson was a 13th-century legendary author and politician who lived on a farm-manor in Reykholt. His main writing, the Prose Edda, has proved to be among the most influential of all myths and legends. This extraordinary literary work has inspired modern works such as Wagner’s Ring Cycle and Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Edda is without a doubt the most renowned of all Scandinavian medieval literature and an extensive source for Norse mythology. Snorri also wrote Heimskringla, which tells the history of Norwegian kings.
The exhibition about Snorri
Snorrastofa’s main space hosts an exhibition called Snorri’s Saga. The exhibition traces the life of Snorri Sturluson (1179-1241) in text and images; his environment and the era. Snorri lived through the Sturlung age, which has been called Iceland’s most violent century. However Snorri rose to wealth and power during these turbulent times, with his diplomatic manners at the forefront.
Opening hours of Snorrastofa
May 1st – August 31st: Daily 10 am – 17 (5 pm)
Rest of the year: Weekdays 10 am – 17 (5 pm)
Where is Snorrastofa?
It is in Reykholt, in Borgarfjordur fjord, about 30 minutes drive from Borgarnes.
Check out our complete guide to West Iceland.
